Description
Juicy and flavorful grilled lamb chops marinated in a fresh mint and lemon marinade, perfect for a savory and aromatic meal. This recipe emphasizes a quick marinating process and grilling to achieve tender, medium-rare to medium lamb chops with a refreshing herbal finish.
Ingredients
Lamb Chops
- 8 well-trimmed lamb loin chops, cut 1 inch thick (about 2 lb.)
Mint Marinade
- 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup snipped fresh mint, divided (3 Tbsp. for marinade, 1 Tbsp. for garnish)
- ¼ tsp. ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp. salt
Instructions
- Trim and Prepare Lamb Chops: Trim excess fat from the lamb loin chops to reduce flare-ups during grilling and place the chops in a large resealable plastic bag set in a shallow dish.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, 3 tablespoons of snipped fresh mint, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Marinate the Chops: Pour the prepared mint marinade over the lamb chops in the plastic bag. Seal the bag tightly and massage the marinade into the meat gently. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the chops.
- Preheat Grill: Prepare your grill for direct medium heat cooking. Make sure the grill rack is clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Drain and Season: Remove the lamb chops from the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade. Sprinkle the chops evenly with salt on both sides.
- Grill the Lamb Chops: Place the chops on the rack of an uncovered grill directly over medium heat. Grill the chops, turning once, for 10 to 14 minutes for medium-rare or 14 to 16 minutes for medium, ensuring they cook evenly and develop a nice char.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the lamb chops from the grill and sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of fresh mint. Let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating the lamb chops overnight will intensify the flavor, but a minimum 30-minute marinade also works well.
- Adjust grill time based on thickness of chops and personal preference for doneness.
- Use fresh mint for a brighter, more authentic taste; dried mint is not recommended.
- Letting chops rest after grilling helps keep them juicy.
- Serve with sides like grilled vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean